The Counsellor for Portuguese communities in Washington DC Mário Francisco Ferreira has spoken about the lack of action from the Portuguese government on US deportations. He said the government is not supporting Portuguese nationals in the United States who might face deportation. He called the government response to President Donald Trump plans for mass deportations regrettable.
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Counsellor For Portuguese Communities On US Deportations
Mário Francisco Ferreira also known as Frank Ferreira. He shared his concerns in an interview with Lusa.
He said:
It is unacceptable that the Portuguese government is not taking this issue seriously. Even more regrettable is the fact that [we have] asked for guidance from the prime minister’s chief of staff, the Portuguese ambassador, and the secretary for Portuguese communities, and we received nothing.
Ferreira is a member of the Council of Portuguese Communities (CCP) which advises the government on emigration issues. He says he has asked officials for information about their plans for deportations.
His questions included whether the embassy and consulates in the US would set up emergency hotlines. What support will be given to families that might be separated and how counsellors like him will be involved?
Concerns About A Lack Of Action
Ferreira says he has received no answers. He told Lusa:
All I know is thanks to the Portuguese press. The point is that the Portuguese government is inattentive and doesn’t respond to its counsellors. Why have a Council if this is the way they behave?
The issue became urgent after Donald Trump repeated his pledge to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. Trump called it the largest mass deportation in history.
The Department of Homeland Security 2022 estimates say there are around 11 million undocumented immigrants in the US. Trump claims the real number might be double that.
The Portuguese Government Response
The Portuguese government response has been cautious. Minister for Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel said deportations of Portuguese nationals are not expected to have a notable impact.
He also said the government is prepared and working with the government of the Azores region. Many Portuguese immigrants in the US have roots in the Azores. The Azores government has started a plan to help deported individuals.
However, Ferreira believes the government actions are not enough. He says they need clearer guidelines and plans to support the Portuguese community in the US. Ferreira is worried about the emotional and financial effects of deportations especially on families with children.
Estimated Impact On Portuguese Nationals
Socialist MP José Luís Carneiro who is a former secretary of state for Portuguese communities estimates that around 3,600 Portuguese nationals could be affected.
These include overstayers people who entered the US legally but stayed after their visas expired. Carneiro said Portugal is among the top three countries with the highest number of overstayers along with China and Spain.
The numbers may seem small compared to the total undocumented population but the impact on the Portuguese community could be serious. Deportations disrupt lives and cause financial problems. Ferreira says the lack of communication from the Portuguese government increases the uncertainty.
Recent Deportation Statistics
Data from US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) shows that deportations of Portuguese residents have changed in recent years. 69 Portuguese residents were deported in 2024 an increase from 60 in 2023. Deporting individuals who violate immigration laws or pose a risk to public safety is the responsibility of ICE.
Ferreira frustration highlights a bigger problem faced by immigrant communities. Governments often struggle to support their citizens abroad while dealing with domestic issues. Ferreira thinks the Portuguese government has failed to protect its citizens in the US.
Ferreira said.
This is not just about numbers. These are real people with families, jobs, and communities. They deserve to know their government has a plan and is ready to help them.
Questions About The Role Of CCP
The situation also raises questions about the role of the Council of Portuguese Communities. The CCP is meant to act as a bridge between Portuguese nationals abroad and the government. Ferreira experience suggests the council influence is limited if government officials do not engage with its members.
Ferreira hopes the Portuguese government will take more action. He wants better communication, more coordination with consular services and clear plans to support deported individuals and their families.
He said:
We need action, not just words. The people affected by this deserve better.
The future of undocumented Portuguese nationals remains uncertain as immigration policies evolve in the US. Community leaders like Mário Francisco Ferreira continue to advocate for their needs by hoping their voices will be heard.
